Best Online Certificate in Accounting Programs of 2024

Certificate programs offer fast, specialized training for learners. An online accounting certificate can launch your career as a bookkeeper, accounting clerk, or financial clerk.

Many top-ranked schools offer online accounting programs. An undergraduate certificate introduces learners to the accounting field and key accounting principles. Certificate programs provide focused accounting training for entry-level roles. After completing a certificate, distance learners can easily transfer into an online accounting degree program.

Earning an accounting certificate at the undergraduate level typically takes one year or less. Most certificate programs range from $1,000-$5,000 for in-state students. In comparison, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that the average cost of tuition and fees at a public institution was $21,854 in 2021-22. Our ranking introduces the best online certificate in accounting programs to help prospective students find the right fit for their budget, schedule, and career goals.

Online accounting certificates provide a focused introduction to accounting. Certificate programs take less time than a degree, making them a good option for students curious about accounting or seeking the fastest route to accounting careers. Unlike a certification or license, certificates train learners in a subject. An accounting certificate introduces learners to the field and fundamental accounting principles.

Unlike degree-granting programs, certificate programs do not include general education requirements. Instead, students only take accounting courses. The format provides focused training for accounting careers. With a certificate, graduates work as accounting clerks or bookkeepers. They also transfer into degree-granting programs.

A certificate introduces college students to an academic discipline. Many certificate programs provide career-focused training. Earning an accounting certificate typically takes around one year. Most programs require 12-30 credits.

Learners in an online certificate in accounting program take classes in a virtual classroom environment. These classes may be offered live or through recorded lectures. Some programs offer self-paced options for students who prefer more flexibility. Distance learning programs incorporate interactive elements, group projects, and hands-on assignments to build accounting skills.

Certificate programs offer a focused course of study without general education requirements. At the undergraduate level, accounting certificates may offer a general accounting concentration or a more focused curriculum emphasizing bookkeeping or small business accounting. After completing a certificate, graduates can enter the workforce or transfer into a degree-granting program. Credits earned at an accredited school will often transfer toward a college degree.

What skills will you need to succeed in an accounting certificate program? Self-motivated, organized students often thrive in online accounting programs. Self-paced and asynchronous programs require discipline to complete program requirements. The accounting field also requires attention to detail and strong numerical skills.

Colleges set different admission requirements for certificate programs. In general, an online certificate in accounting program will require a high school diploma or the equivalent. Some schools admit students without a high school diploma as part of high school partnership programs.

Prospective students typically fill out an application and provide transcripts showing their high school diploma. Most certificate programs do not require standardized test scores like the ACT or SAT. Applicants may need to provide a personal statement or letters of recommendation.

Certificate programs operate at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Many business schools offer graduate certificates in accounting. These programs require a bachelor’s degree for admission.

College-level training in accounting leads to many career opportunities. With a certificate in accounting, professionals work as bookkeepers, accounting clerks, bank tellers, and financial clerks. These careers report median salaries in line with the national average.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for bookkeepers and accounting clerks was $47,440 in 2023. The BLS projects 183,900 openings for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks every year from 2022-2032.

After completing an accounting certificate, professionals can also increase their earning potential by pursuing a college degree. A bachelor’s degree meets the educational requirement for accountant and auditor jobs. This growing field reported a median annual salary of $79,880 in 2023.

An accounting certificate can be the first step into a high-paying career.

A bachelor’s degree meets the minimum education requirement for higher-paying roles like accountant or auditor. According to BLS data from May 2023, accountants earn a median annual salary of $79,880. Accountants can also pursue voluntary certifications to move into specialized roles.

Many students list cost as the most important factor when choosing a program. Fortunately, an online certificate in accounting can be very affordable. Many community colleges offer online certificate programs that take around one year. According to the NCES, students paid an average of $3,564 for one year at a community college in 2021-22.

When researching programs, compare online and on-campus costs while also checking the program’s total cost. Total program cost includes expenses such as technology fees, materials, and forgone income.

Colleges offer online certificate programs in several formats. Learners can enroll either full time or part time. Working professionals and busy students may prefer a part-time option. Programs also offer classes both synchronously and asynchronously. These program formats will shape the student’s experience while earning a certificate.

Program location is important, even for online learners. For programs with on-campus requirements, attending a school close to you can save you money. Consider the benefits and tradeoffs of local programs –– the nearest program might not offer the most affordable tuition rate, for example.

Independent, non-profit agencies grant accreditation to schools that demonstrate strong student learning outcomes, faculty qualifications, and academic missions. Accredited schools meet high standards for academic excellence, and students at an accredited school also qualify for more types of financial aid.

Colleges and universities should hold institutional accreditation, while accounting certificates may hold programmatic accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

The best online colleges provide a range of student services. These services include academic advising, career support, and tutoring. Online learners also benefit from mentorship programs and internship opportunities. Research the school’s student support services when choosing a certificate program.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.